Contents
Description
Bothriospermum Secundum is a flowering plant that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. It is commonly known as ‘Purple Viper’s-bugloss’ or ‘Blueweed.’ It is native to Europe and Asia but can be found in other regions as well. This herbaceous plant is an annual or biennial that can grow up to 30-60cm tall. The stem is hairy, and the leaves are lance-shaped and also hairy.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Bothriospermum |
Appearance
The flowers of Bothriospermum Secundum are small and purple-blue in color, arranged in clusters along the stems. The plant blooms from May to September. The fruit is a nutlet, which is covered in hooked hairs that help it attach to animals’ fur or clothing. The leaves are dark green and hairy, with a lanceolate shape. The stem is also hairy and can be green or reddish-brown.
Care Guide
Bothriospermum Secundum prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It needs regular watering, especially during the growing season, but it can tolerate drought conditions. Fertilization is not necessary, but a general-purpose fertilizer can be applied in the spring. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bothriospermum Secundum is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. It can also attract aphids, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Slugs and snails can also damage the plant, causing holes in the leaves and stem.
Habitat
Bothriospermum Secundum is native to Europe and Asia but can be found in other regions as well. It grows in meadows, fields, and along roadsides. It can also be found in disturbed areas such as abandoned lots and gravel pits.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Bothriospermum Secundum a perennial or annual plant?
A: Bothriospermum Secundum is an annual or biennial plant.
Q: What is the ideal growing condition for Bothriospermum Secundum?
A: Bothriospermum Secundum prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Q: What are the common pests that attack Bothriospermum Secundum?
A: Bothriospermum Secundum can attract aphids, slugs, and snails.
Q: What is the blooming season of Bothriospermum Secundum?
A: Bothriospermum Secundum blooms from May to September.
Related Plants
- Bothriospermum tenellum
- Bothriospermum virgatum
- Bothriospermum tenuifolium
References
- “Bothriospermum secundum (L.) DC.” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science.
- “Bothriospermum secundum.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Bothriospermum secundum.” Royal Horticultural Society.
